Calgary can be an expensive city to stay in, but if you have your own transportation or are game to take a taxi or public transportation, you can find cheaper, more affordable hotels just a short drive from the city’s core. Here are some thrifty thought starters.

Hotel for $100 or less

Yes, it’s possible to find a hotel in Calgary that’s a hundred dollars or less, it’s Canadas Best Value Inn Calgary. Even during peak summertime tourist season it’s around $100. There’s a swimming pool, wifi and it includes a free breakfast.

Options Just Over $100

If you have wheels and don’t mind staying over by the airport, you can find yourself some thrifty options. The Best Western Airport Inn provides good value for your dollar as well as a breakfast buffet and free airport shuttle. Another option in the area is the Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Calgary Airport. A TripAdvisor Award of Excellence Winner, with a 90% approval rating, this hotel has a reputation for providing clean, comfortable accommodations and a great breakfast. One of the most popular destinations in Calgary is the Canadian Olympic Park. If you would prefer accommodations close to here, the Sandman Hotel & Suites Calgary West is an ideal fit. You’ll get free wifi, there’s an indoor pool, and you can start your day off with a good, cheap breakfast at the nearby Denny’s. Another penny-pinching possibility is the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites University. It too offers free wi-fi, a swimming pool, complimentary breakfast and it’s close to a train station if you prefer to leave the car behind and take the city’s transit system into downtown. Right along the Trans Canada highway you’ll find the Centro Motel. The price is right and so are the accommodations. The rooms are clean and the beds are comfy. You’re also close to McMahon Stadium, the Olympic Oval and downtown is just 10 minutes away.

Mid-Range Hotels

Hotel BlackfootTripAdvisor Award of Excellence Winner

For just a few bucks more you can stay in the Hotel Blackfoot. A TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence winner the Hotel Blackfoot boasts modern contemporary suites and, they claim, the most comfortable beds in town. After a day of touring this hotel is a great place to relax with four restaurants, a pool, a poolside patio and even a comedy club! If you want to include some power shopping with your stay, the Carriage House Inn Calgary is the perfect spot. It’s located about 15 minutes south of the city and five minutes away from the Chinook Centre, one of the city’s largest malls. A stay here includes free wifi, a pool and a gym. If you don’t have your own set of wheels, no problem–there’s a public transit stop just two minutes away.

How about a Pool with a Waterslide?

Holiday Inn Express & Suites AirportTripAdvisor 80% Approval Rating

The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Airport is another popular choice. This hotel has an 80% approval rating from TripAdvisor reviewers and features clean, comfortable, well-appointed rooms. In-room amenities include wet-bar with fridge, sink, coffee and microwave. Feel like going for a dip? This place has a great pool which includes a waterslide! Travelling for an extended period of time inevitably leads to the need to do a little laundry. Stay in the Comfort Inn & Suites South and you’ll have the convenience of laundry facilities on premise. That’s not all this hotel offers. The rooms are clean and comfortable, there’s a pool with a hot tub and a big waterslide and breakfast is included. And the Stampede grounds and city’s downtown are just minutes away.

Save by staying at a Calgary Hostel

Got a small budget but big dreams i.e. want to visit Calgary, Alberta? Staying in a Calgary hostel might make the most sense for your budget. In some cases you can get a place to lay your head for under $50 a night—even during peak tourist season. Two great places to see what hostel accommodations are available are Hostelworld and TripAdvisor.

Don’t forget to Check Groupon for Calgary Hotel Deals

One great way to save on Calgary hotel accommodations is to peruse Groupon, the money-saving website that features local discounts in 150 cities. Visit the Calgary “Hotels” Groupon page and you’ll find savings of up to 50% on places to stay. The Groupon Calgary “Hotels” page is a smart place to start when you’re first planning your trip and even when you’re in the middle of your Calgary visit because new deals get added weekly and even daily many times.

Be thrifty and practical! This information was accurate when published, but can change without notice. We recommend you confirm all details with the provider in question before planning your excursion.